Why to See a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in Menopause.
Menopause marks a significant physiological transition in a woman's life. It may often be accompanied by the challenging symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). This condition encompasses a range of symptoms affecting the genital and urinary tract due to declining estrogen levels, including vaginal dryness, itching, burning, urinary urgency, frequency, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Seeking guidance from a pelvic floor physiotherapist during menopause can profoundly alleviate these symptoms. Physiotherapists specializing in pelvic floor health offer targeted interventions to address the underlying causes of GSM. Through personalized assessments, they identify muscle tone imbalances, pelvic floor weakness, and tissue integrity issues exacerbated by hormonal changes.
Treatment typically involves pelvic floor exercises, internal muscle facilitation techniques, and manual therapy of the spine and hips to restore muscle strength, improve blood flow, and enhance tissue elasticity. These interventions not only alleviate symptoms like vaginal dryness and discomfort but also support urinary continence and reduce the frequency of UTIs.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy empowers women with education on lifestyle modifications and self-care practices crucial for managing GSM. Techniques such as vaginal dilators or therapeutic devices may be recommended to improve tissue flexibility and sexual function.
Studies have shown significant improvements in vaginal pH levels, tissue integrity, and overall quality of life following physiotherapy interventions. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of GSM, physiotherapists play a pivotal role in enhancing women's comfort and confidence during this transitional phase.
Many of my clients have goals of wearing a bathing suite comfortably again without the worry of urinary incontinence. Also, travelling without constantly finding or looking for a bathroom. Lastly, a wish to return to intercourse with a partner without the feeling of vaginal tension or dryness is a common goal.
In conclusion, integrating pelvic floor physiotherapy into menopausal care plans offers holistic support for managing Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. By targeting underlying pelvic floor dysfunction and providing tailored treatment strategies, physiotherapists empower women to navigate menopause with greater comfort and improved quality of life.